If you’re looking to set a custom notification sound for Google Messages, you’re not alone. Many Android users, especially after recent updates, are finding it harder than ever to set unique tones specifically for messages. The usual go-to settings often only allow a blanket change that affects all app notifications. Frustrated users report missing important texts simply because they can’t distinguish message alerts from other notifications anymore, and there’s a growing sense that the notification setup is just a bit more complicated than it should be.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to help you regain control over your message notifications, ensuring each text alert stands out. Let’s dive in!
On Google Pixel phones
- Open the Google Messages app and tap on your profile picture or icon in the top-right corner.
- Tap Messages Settings to open the app’s settings menu.
- Select Notifications.
- Tap on ‘Behaviour, sound and more.
- At first glance, you might think there’s no setting to select notification sounds. However, it’s hidden in plain sight.
- Simply tap the bell icon beside the ‘Incoming messages’ option.
- Then select ‘Sound’ and pick your preferred notification sound.
This should bring you into a section where you can fine-tune notifications specifically for Google Messages. You can also check out this screen recording for a visual guide (loads via Imgur):
On Samsung devices
Some Samsung users, especially those on Android 14, have noticed that the option to change notification sounds seems hidden or missing. But there’s a workaround!
- Go to your Phone Settings (outside of the Google Messages app).
- Scroll down to Notifications > Advanced Settings (this option might be at the bottom).
- Look for Manage Notification Categories for Each App and toggle it on. This enables more detailed controls for individual apps.
After turning this on, return to Google Messages Settings. You should now see an option for Notification Categories. You can also watch this video for a visual guide:
That’s all! Just note that different Android skins might have slightly different names or pages for these settings, but the concept is the same. Feel free to let us know if this guide helped you set up a custom notification sound on your Google Messages app.
Dwayne Cubbins
389 Posts
For nearly a decade, I've been deciphering the complexities of the tech world, with a particular passion for helping users navigate the ever-changing tech landscape. From crafting in-depth guides that unlock your phone's hidden potential to uncovering and explaining the latest bugs and glitches, I make sure you get the most out of your devices. And yes, you might occasionally find me ranting about some truly frustrating tech mishaps.
Follow Us
